Mahindra has confirmed it will make the trip to Motegi for the 2011 Japanese Grand Prix, but with a temporary engineering staff drafted in following its concerns over the radiation threat from the Fukushima nuclear plant.

Though most teams are expected to be present at Motegi, despite earlier fears there would be a boycott of the event, 125GP rookies Mahindra have taken the unusual step of participating, but with a one-off team of engineers.

Justifying the move by saying it was unfair not to extend the option to travel to the engineers, Mahindra will nonetheless still be represented by regular riders Marcel Schrotter and Danny Webb

“It was difficult, but we felt it right to offer the choice to our team members and we have to respect their decisions,” said team manager Mufaddal Choonia. “While the information that Dorna has circulated has been very reassuring, it did not seem fair for us to force the guys to head out there if they had their own personal concerns.

“Of course, it will not make the weekend particularly easy. Mahindra Racing is a slick operation. Each man has his role and they all know the bike inside out. With the temporary staff members we shall do the best we can and hope to carry on the great progress we have made this season.

“The riders are keen to race and we are delighted to support them. It is also important to be there to support Japan. We all watched in horror as the earthquake, tsunami and Fukushima disaster devastated the country.

“To be hosting a Grand Prix so soon afterwards sends out a very positive signal that our Japanese friends are returning to a sense of normality.”

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re: "“While the information that Dorna has circulated has been very reassuring, it did not seem fair for us to force the guys to head out there if they had their own personal concerns."
wow, good to know logic and intelligence is alive and well somewhere in the paddock. shame dorna themselves have so little respect for the boffins and support classes that make the show possible.